Overheard in Junior House
26 March 2026 - Junior
Snippets from a day in the life of our Boarding House
“I wouldn’t swap Junior House for any other, even if Harry Potter and Gryffindor came calling!”
Anaya
High praise indeed! There is something very special about hearing the Junior House girls speak with such pride about where they are, and it is such a lovely sign that they feel happy, settled, and part of something bigger than themselves. Our community is just that. I love hearing the girls’ laughter echoing along the corridors, watching them take part in shared routines, and seeing that sense of belonging grow stronger by the day. Junior House has truly become a home for us all, and we wouldn’t swap it for the world.
“We’re building a fort tomorrow – would anyone like to join in?”
Ciara and Charlotte
And just like that, a magical idea from these two turned into a full-scale Junior House adventure. One of the joys of boarding life is how naturally these moments unfold… initiative is taken, others are gathered in, and suddenly something simple becomes something memorable. Friendship often grows strongest in these spontaneous plans. There is now a rather splendid teepee fort in the garden, and I highly recommend a visit!
“Do we have any more play-doh? I need to make you a tiny plate of sushi!”
Catherine
Creativity has been in plentiful supply this Term. It is sometimes unexpected, often delightful, and always shared. Whether it’s crafting, imagining, or simply making something to bring a smile to someone else, these moments of playful generosity say so much about the spirit of the House. The girls have tried their hands at everything, but my particular favourites include our hand-painted rock garden, with every girl contributing her own creation, and, of course, Catherine’s wonderful desire to make me a miniature sushi, entirely on a whim!
“I used to be scared of the dogs, but I’m not anymore.”
Olanna
A quiet reflection, but such a powerful one. So many experiences that once felt daunting, including new routines, unfamiliar challenges, stepping outside of comfort zones. But amazingly, these have gradually become sources of confidence. It is in these understated moments that real growth is often found. I have seen the girls quite literally hold each other’s hands through moments of uncertainty; they are endlessly supportive of their Junior House family. Together, they really can conquer anything.
“Just five more minutes – we need to finish our dorm dance battle!”
Finch Dorm
Sometimes life in Junior House feels like one long, joyful sleepover, and those final moments before lights out are often the most animated! Dorm life is a truly special part of the girls’ experience, filled with card games, yoga sessions, impromptu performances, and plenty of laughter. Of course, learning to live alongside others brings its own challenges: organisation, compromise, and the occasional reminder to tidy up! But all of this is part of the magic, and part of growing up together.
“Can we go back for thirds?”
Melody
Busy days require plenty of fuel, and the girls certainly embrace mealtimes with enthusiasm! This Term, smoothie bowls have been a particular highlight, with much excitement over choosing flavours and their favourite fruity toppings. Mealtimes are a chance to pause, refuel, and reconnect, and they’re always accompanied by a steady hum of conversation and laughter. Dinner, especially, has become a cornerstone of the day: a time to gather, share stories, and reflect. A healthy appetite, in every sense, has defined the Term.
“Do you need a hug?”
Vaani
Perhaps the most important words of all. Kindness has shown itself in so many quiet, unprompted ways. Countless times, we’ve watched girls offer a gentle check-in, a reassuring presence, a moment of empathy to those in need. These small gestures are what transform a group of individuals into a genuinely caring community. Often, it is these moments that stop me in my tracks, like seeing a girl offer kindness to someone she may not usually spend time with, but simply because it is needed.
“I just love everything about this. Goodnight everyone!”
Violet
A fitting end to many a busy day. Tired, happy, and surrounded by friends, there is a real sense of contentment as the House settles for the night. It is in these simple, heartfelt moments that the success of a Term is most clearly felt.
If I had to capture this Term in a single word, it would be ‘belonging’. In the friendships formed, the confidence that has quietly grown, and the kindness shown so readily, Junior House has become far more than just a place to stay – it is a community in the truest sense.
It has been a joy to watch it unfold, and we are immensely proud of all that has been achieved, often in ways that are not immediately visible, but deeply felt. We look forward to all that next Term will bring, as we enjoy our final months together as Junior House.
